Time & Patience. . . “The only thing permanent is change.”

The world as we knew it has changed drastically. Life for each of us is different in many ways. Social distancing is our new normal, and it does take some getting used to. We don’t seem to have the freedom to go and do what we want when we want or celebrate holidays and special occasions as we would like. Travel is on hold. Calendars are empty, not overflowing with appointments and places we “have” to be. The world is changing, and we must change along with it. Time and patience are necessary.

When you entered my class for the first time, I spoke with you about being patient with your learning. T’ai Chi Chih cannot be learned overnight. It will take time and much practice. The way you move your body will change, and the movements will become softer and done with more ease. (Not necessarily easier.) And remember: It is TCC practice, not TCC perfect.

With time and patience,

we begin to connect with our entire body,

feel it moving as one integral whole,

and notice nothing moves independently of the other

(the arms not separate from the legs or the torso).

We also begin to understand and feel the energy moving through us

and possibly gain a better understanding of ourselves as well.

As we grow in our understanding of the practice and begin to feel the energy, our mind and thoughts begin to change. As our movements soften, perhaps we soften. The stresses and challenges life presents to us can sometimes make us uneasy and anxious, but the practice of TCC can help us find an inner stillness, learn to act but not react.

A universal energy connects us all. Each of us has felt that in class when we practice together. It seems as if we are all moving as one; the arms become weightless, the movements become effortless and are done with less thought. Visually, this free flow of energy is pure poetry in motion.

It is with gratitude that I send these thoughts . . . grateful I am for the gift of TCC in my life and grateful to my many dedicated students who bring a fullness to my life. Balance the body, balance the mind with TCC.